Dominica: Contract signed for Stock Farm indoor sports facility design

Dominica has moved one step closer to having a modern, energy-efficient multisport complex with the signing of a design yesterday afternoon.

The centre, which will be built in Stock Farm, is set to create new jobs, enhance the island’s sports tourism product and help develop a new generation of world-class professional athletes.

When complete, the arena will be home to multiple indoor and outdoor courts for tennis, netball, volleyball and basketball, as well as a public swimming pool.

The facility will be designed by Marques + Marques Arquitectos, a Puerto Rico-based architectural firm with over 40 years of design and construction experience.

Their portfolio including schools, sports centres and commercial facilities.

The firm will also oversee the construction of the complex, which will be tendered to local contractors.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit described his government as having long been at the forefront of investing in sports development in Dominica, both in the areas of human resources and infrastructure.

“It is under this administration that for the first time in our country’s history we have been able to hold international matches, not only for cricket but [also] for football,” he said.

The prime minister believes the facility will encourage aspiring athletes to take their approach to sports more seriously than they currently do, and seize the opportunity to forge a lucrative career out of sports.

Taking Dominica to the next level

Describing the indoor sports centre as “a significant investment in our young people”, he stressed that it will be integral to engendering the growth of sport in the country.

“There are scores of young people who I have met who have the raw talent and are utilising our less than adequate facilities to improve their abilities.

“With the construction of this facility we are very confident that it will take sports development to the next level in Dominica.”

Minister of Youth, Sports, Culture and Constituency Empowerment Justina Charles echoed Skerrit’s words, predicting that the complex will position Dominica to host regional and continental events.

“This, in no doubt, will afford us an opportunity to provide our youth with opportunities to improve their games and to raise their standards,” she said.

Charles added that the facility will enhance the island’s sports tourism potential, contributing to the overall national development.